Joseph W. Mooney Park

The fire truck play structure is honestly what makes this one stand out — kids absolutely lose it over the slide built into it, and it’s the kind of thing you don’t see at every park. Mooney is a solid spot for the 2-12 crowd, with swings and an enclosed play area that gives parents some peace of mind. The open grass field gives everyone room to spread out, which you don’t always get in University City. There’s a basketball court on site too, so older kids aren’t stuck waiting around for a turn on the playground. Regulars here tend to know each other, and that neighborhood feel is real.